The gametogenetic cycle of two syntopic populations of moles: Talpa romana and Talpa europaea (Mammalia, Insectivora, Talpidae)

The gametogenetic activity of two syntopic populations of moles, Talpa romana and T europaea (Mammalia, Insectivora, Talpidae), was compared. The testes and the ovaries of 42 specimens of T romana and of 41 specimens of T europaea were histologically characterised. Male gametogenetic activity was shown by the presence of spermatozoa in the epididymis. The diameter of seminiferous tubules was also measured. Female gametogenetic activity was evaluated on the basis of the number of secondary and pluristratified primary follicles in the ovary. Though not identical, the gametogenetic cycle of T romana largely overlaps that of T europaea. Moreover, for the two populations of moles a relationship between the duration of the reproductive activity and climatic and latitude-dependent parameters is suggested.